Oliver Goldsmith: Fiction

Introduction to Oliver Goldsmith

Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774) was a prominent Anglo-Irish novelist, playwright, poet, and physician. He is celebrated for his wit, his keen observation of human nature, and his ability to blend humor with pathos. While his literary output spanned various genres, his contributions to fiction, particularly his novel "The Vicar of Wakefield," hold a significant place in the history of English literature. Goldsmith was a central figure in the literary circles of his time, associated with prominent figures like Samuel Johnson and Joshua Reynolds, and a member of the influential literary club known as The Club.

The Vicar of Wakefield: Context and Genesis

"The Vicar of Wakefield" is Oliver Goldsmith's only complete novel, published in 1766, although it was likely written several years earlier. The novel's publication was somewhat delayed, and Goldsmith, in need of money, is said to have sold the copyright for a mere £60. Despite this modest sum, the novel went on to achieve immense popularity and critical acclaim, securing Goldsmith's reputation as a novelist. The story is set in rural England and offers a gentle satire of social pretensions, while also exploring themes of virtue, innocence, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The novel's sentimental yet humorous tone reflects the sensibilities of the 18th century, a period often referred to as the Age of Enlightenment, which valued reason, individualism, and moral instruction.

Plot Summary of "The Vicar of Wakefield"

The novel centers on Dr. Charles Primrose, the kindly and somewhat naive vicar of a parish in rural England. The story begins with the vicar recounting his family's history and their subsequent misfortunes. The family, consisting of the vicar, his wife Deborah, and their six children (three sons and three daughters), enjoys a comfortable life until financial ruin strikes due to a series of disastrous investments and the death of a wealthy uncle who had promised to leave them an inheritance. Forced to leave their comfortable parsonage, they move to a modest cottage. Their youngest daughter, the beautiful and virtuous Olivia, is seduced by Squire Thornhill, a wealthy and unscrupulous local landowner who feigns affection for her. Meanwhile, the eldest daughter, Sophia, also attracts Thornhill's attention, as well as that of his uncle, Sir William Honeywood. The narrative unfolds through a series of unfortunate events, including the vicar's imprisonment for debt, the elopement of Olivia with Thornhill, and the subsequent scandal and disgrace. Thornhill abandons Olivia, who is left to fend for herself. The family faces further hardships, including the loss of their possessions and the threat of destitution. However, through a series of coincidences and the intervention of benevolent characters, including the mysterious Mr. Burchell (who is revealed to be Sir William Honeywood in disguise), the family's fortunes are gradually restored. Olivia is eventually married to Thornhill, who is compelled to do so by his uncle. The novel concludes with the Primrose family regaining their status and happiness, having learned valuable lessons about life, faith, and forgiveness.

Key Characters in "The Vicar of Wakefield"

Dr. Charles Primrose:

The protagonist and narrator. He is a man of great virtue, piety, and learning, but also possesses a degree of innocence and naivety that often leads him into trouble. His unwavering faith and moral compass guide him through immense suffering, and he serves as an idealized representation of a good clergyman and a loving father. His reflections on life and family provide the novel's moral and philosophical core.

Mrs. Deborah Primrose:

The vicar's wife. She is more concerned with social status and appearances than her husband, often displaying vanity and a desire for her daughters to make advantageous marriages. Despite her flaws, she is a devoted wife and mother.

Olivia Primrose:

The second eldest daughter, renowned for her beauty and accomplishments. She is the one who falls prey to Squire Thornhill's charms and suffers the most significant consequences of his deceit. Her story highlights the vulnerability of young women in society.

Sophia Primrose:

The youngest daughter, also beautiful and virtuous. She is more cautious than Olivia and manages to navigate the dangers of society with greater prudence. Her relationship with the disguised Sir William Honeywood forms a significant subplot.

George Primrose:

The eldest son, who ventures out into the world seeking his fortune. His adventures, including his brief and disastrous marriage to a woman who turns out to be a prostitute, serve as a cautionary tale about the perils of the outside world.

Squire Thornhill:

The local landowner and antagonist. He is portrayed as a charming but morally corrupt and opportunistic character who exploits the innocence of the Primrose family, particularly Olivia. He embodies the superficiality and vice of the landed gentry.

Mr. Burchell / Sir William Honeywood:

A mysterious traveler who initially appears to be a simple wanderer. He offers advice and assistance to the Primrose family, though sometimes in a cryptic manner. He is later revealed to be Sir William Honeywood, a benevolent gentleman who orchestrates much of the family's eventual salvation. He represents wisdom and disguised benevolence.

Themes in "The Vicar of Wakefield"

Virtue and Innocence:

The novel strongly advocates for the importance of virtue and innocence, particularly in the face of corruption and deceit. The Primrose family, despite their suffering, largely retains their moral integrity, which ultimately leads to their redemption. Dr. Primrose's steadfast adherence to his principles, even when it leads to hardship, is central to this theme.

Social Satire:

Goldsmith uses the novel to gently satirize the social pretensions and follies of his time. The obsession with rank, wealth, and marriage as a means of social advancement is subtly critiqued. Mrs. Primrose's aspirations for her daughters and Squire Thornhill's superficial charm are prime examples of this satire.

Family and Domesticity:

The novel places a strong emphasis on the importance of family bonds and domestic happiness. The vicar's love for his wife and children is the driving force of the narrative. The disruption of domestic peace by external forces and the eventual restoration of harmony underscore this theme.

Providence and Fortune:

The narrative suggests a benevolent, guiding hand of Providence at work, orchestrating events to bring about justice and restoration. The seemingly random coincidences and the timely interventions of Mr. Burchell hint at a divine plan that rewards virtue and punishes vice, even if the path is circuitous and fraught with suffering.

The Nature of Happiness:

Goldsmith explores the idea that true happiness is not dependent on wealth or social status, but rather on inner contentment, moral integrity, and the love of one's family. The Primrose family finds their greatest joy not in their former prosperity, but in their renewed unity and peace of mind.

Literary Style and Techniques

Goldsmith's prose in "The Vicar of Wakefield" is characterized by its clarity, elegance, and gentle humor. He employs a conversational tone, drawing the reader into the vicar's personal narrative. The novel utilizes several literary devices effectively:

• Epistolary Elements: While not strictly an epistolary novel, it incorporates letters and personal reflections, enhancing the sense of intimacy and personal testimony.
• Irony and Satire: Goldsmith masterfully uses irony, often stemming from the vicar's own optimistic misinterpretations of events, to create humor and subtly critique societal norms.
• Sentimentalism: The novel appeals to the reader's emotions, with moments of pathos and sympathy for the characters' suffering. This aligns with the sentimental literary movement of the 18th century.
• Coincidence and Deus ex Machina: The plot relies heavily on coincidences and fortunate interventions, particularly by Mr. Burchell, to resolve conflicts. This device, while sometimes criticized, serves to reinforce the theme of benevolent Providence.
• Characterization: Goldsmith creates memorable characters, both sympathetic and flawed, who represent different aspects of 18th-century society.

Goldsmith's Contribution to the English Novel

"The Vicar of Wakefield" is considered a significant work in the development of the English novel. It stands as a prime example of the sentimental novel, a genre that gained prominence in the 18th century. Unlike earlier novels that might have focused on adventure or satire alone, Goldsmith's work successfully blended moral instruction with engaging narrative and relatable characters. The novel's enduring appeal lies in its exploration of universal themes of family, faith, and resilience. It offered a contrast to the more picaresque or satirical novels of the time, presenting a more domestic and morally uplifting story. Its influence can be seen in later works that explore similar themes of rural life, clerical characters, and the triumph of virtue over adversity.

Goldsmith's Other Fictional Works

While "The Vicar of Wakefield" is his most famous fictional achievement, Goldsmith also contributed to other forms of prose fiction, often in shorter formats. His collection of essays, "The Citizen of the World" (1762), uses letters purportedly written by a Chinese philosopher observing London life. These essays offer witty social commentary and observations on various aspects of English society, mirroring some of the satirical elements found in his novel. These letters, presented as if by an outsider, allow Goldsmith to comment on English customs, politics, and social follies with a fresh and critical perspective. The character of Lien Chi Altangi, the 'Chinese philosopher,' serves as a vehicle for Goldsmith's keen observations and critiques, employing irony and gentle mockery to expose the absurdities of Western civilization.

"The Citizen of the World" (1762)

"The Citizen of the World" is a series of 123 letters supposedly written by Lien Chi Altangi, a fictional Chinese scholar visiting London. The letters provide a panoramic view of 18th-century London life, touching upon topics such as politics, fashion, theatre, religion, and the legal system. Through Altangi's 'alien' perspective, Goldsmith satirizes the customs and institutions of England. The work is characterized by its humor, its insightful social commentary, and its philosophical reflections on human nature. It showcases Goldsmith's ability to adapt his style for different purposes, moving from the sustained narrative of a novel to the more episodic and observational format of essays.

Key aspects of "The Citizen of the World":

• Satirical Lens: The outsider's perspective allows for sharp, often humorous, critiques of English society's hypocrisies and absurdities.
• Social Commentary: The essays cover a wide range of social issues, offering insights into the prevailing attitudes and practices of the era.
• Character of Lien Chi Altangi: Altangi is portrayed as wise, observant, and often bemused by the customs he encounters, serving as a moral commentator.
• Influence: The work contributed to the tradition of the 'oriental tale' and the use of fictional travelers to critique one's own society.

Goldsmith's Legacy in Fiction

Oliver Goldsmith's legacy in fiction is primarily tied to "The Vicar of Wakefield." The novel's enduring popularity demonstrates its successful blend of sentiment, humor, and moral teaching. It provided a model for the domestic novel, emphasizing character and moral development over grand adventure. The warmth and humanity of Dr. Primrose have made him an archetypal figure of gentle goodness. Goldsmith's ability to create a sympathetic protagonist who navigates a world of complex social pressures and personal misfortunes cemented his place as a significant 18th-century novelist. His prose style, marked by its clarity and grace, continues to be admired. While his output in fiction was limited, the impact of "The Vicar of Wakefield" on the genre and its continued readership attest to its lasting value.